Annabel Flora
Research Mentor: Lizbeth Benson
Mentor Department: Survey Research Center, Data Science for Dynamic Intervention Decision-Making Center, ISR
Author(s): Annabel Flora
Session: Session 7 (4:00 PM – 4:50 PM)
Presentation Type: Poster 82
Abstract
Background. Smoking remains a major contributor to premature mortality worldwide, and smoking cessation is associated with meaningful health benefits. Although smartphone app based smoking cessation interventions are available and increasingly used, rates of successful cessation remain relatively low. One potential reason is limited user engagement with app based coping activities designed to help individuals manage smoking urges and stress. One strategy for increasing engagement is the use of personalized feedback data visualizations, which may help users better understand their behaviors and progress over time. Objective. The purpose of this study is to gather detailed information from individuals who are actively attempting to quit smoking and those interested in quitting in the near future. The goal is to inform the development of a new smartphone-based cessation app and to elicit participants’ input, ideas, and preferences regarding personalized feedback data visualizations and how they may support engagement. As an initial step, this study seeks to understand needs and preferences for digital app-based feedback among these groups. Methods. This mixed methods, person centered study involves two sessions designed to elicit participant experiences, preferences, and design insights. The first session will be conducted remotely via Zoom and includes a survey assessing smoking history and prior quit attempts, followed by a semi structured interview focused on barriers, successes, and preferences for tailored app-based support. The second session will be conducted in person and will involve participatory design activities to identify preferred forms of personalized feedback through data visualizations and text, while also encouraging new ideas. Results. The IRB application is under review, and data collection is expected in spring and summer of 2026. Discussion. Findings will inform the development of personalized feedback visualizations to be tested in future research for their effectiveness in increasing engagement.
